Finally listened to the whole album. The first two songs are a bit shaky, but overall I like it a lot. Often it reminds me of what a non-shoegaze Curve would be (similar sense of precision without the overdriven scuzz). And I like that for this record, the guitar is simply an element, deployed. Not the center of it. Similar to Prince's pop singles. "Los Ageless" is still my favorite song here

You don't have to do that. I think you're probably absolutely right. My ignorance here is on full display. I believe you. I just meant that Sugarboy sounded... familiar to me each time I listened and I couldn't quite figure out which artist it reminded me of. And it's Prince. I probably would have gotten to that conclusion quicker if I knew more of Prince's work. I'm sure it's all over the album, too. She's mentioned him quite a bit in interviews leading up to the release.

I love everything she's ever done, and I think this as just as good or better than any of the other records. Hang on Me, Masseduction, Los Ageless, HB Johnny, Savior, Slow Disco, Smoking Section are going to stay in my ear for years to come, I'm sure. Lyrics are really strong on this album.

I have one Tortoise album that I bought on a lark way back in the day. I should revisit that. I remember liking it well enough but being bummed that it was instrumental. That used to bug me way back when. But I'm way more into non-vocal stuff more now. I should give it a listen.

Which Tortoise album, Joe? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts if you ever do get to revisit it.

Oh shoot... I forgot to look at home. I'll Google their album covers and see if I can remember which one. Gimme a sec.

It's Millions Now Living Will Never Die.

That's a pretty good entry point for them. It's more concise than TNT, which is my favorite and was my own introduction, and more accessible and fully constructed than their self-titled.

I have one Tortoise album that I bought on a lark way back in the day. I should revisit that. I remember liking it well enough but being bummed that it was instrumental. That used to bug me way back when. But I'm way more into non-vocal stuff more now. I should give it a listen.

Which Tortoise album, Joe? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts if you ever do get to revisit it.

Oh shoot... I forgot to look at home. I'll Google their album covers and see if I can remember which one. Gimme a sec.

It's Millions Now Living Will Never Die.

That's a pretty good entry point for them. It's more concise than TNT, which is my favorite and was my own introduction, and more accessible and fully constructed than their self-titled.

Good to know. I guess I've got a really old album to revisit. That's fun.